Cosmetic Surgery Errors*

Cosmetic Surgery Errors in Ireland – Medical Negligence

Cosmetic surgery is ‘elective’ in nature and it can be described as any procedure undertaken with the aim of improving one’s aesthetic or physical appearance. The market for cosmetic surgery has increased significantly in Ireland over the last few years; what was once an area of medical negligence reserved for celebrities or wealthy persons, it has recently become more accessible, affordable and as a result more prevalent in Irish society.

With this growth of the market in Ireland we have also seen a rise in the number of medical practitioners claiming to be specialist cosmetic surgeons – quite often though, this is not the case. There has been a plethora of new clinics in Ireland offering cosmetic surgery with most people locating these providers online where low prices are used to entice potential customers.

Lack of Regulation of Cosmetic Surgery in Ireland

The lack of adequate regulation of the industry in Ireland has not helped matters in this regard. In response to the ongoing concerns expressed in relation to the safety and quality of cosmetic surgery procedures in Ireland, the Irish Medical Organisation, in 2010, issued a guidance paper entitled ‘Recommendations for patients considering surgical cosmetic procedures’. This document is a good place to start for anyone considering cosmetic surgery in Ireland and we would advise anyone considering same to read it by clicking on the hyperlinked text.

As well as reading that, the Irish Medical Council would also recommend that prospective patients consult a registered plastic surgeon. To do this, you can verify a doctor’s qualifications and check if a doctor is on the specialist division of the medical register by using the Medical Council’s ‘Search for a Registered Doctor’ facility where you can search by name as well as registration number.

Common Medical Negligence claims involving cosmetic surgery include, but are not limited to:-

It should be remembered that even relatively ‘small’ procedures, which may not be conducted by invasive techniques can nevertheless cause pain, discomfort and/or serious health problems if they are not carried out correctly. ‘Fast’ cosmetic treatments available such as botox injections, dermal fillers and laser treatment are sometimes carried out by establishments selling these procedures for what are relatively low rated but the reality is that they that are not monitored, regulated or controlled and huge caution should be exercised.

A good cosmetic surgeon will:

– Be suitably qualified as a cosmetic surgeon – Inform you of the benefits of cosmetic enhancements – Discuss the risks with you in detail – Outline the alternatives available to you – Give you a cooling off period whilst you think about the best course of action for you – Perform the procedure in question with proper skill and due care

Caveat Emptor – ‘Buyer Beware’

Even the most straightforward procedure can cause very serious problems if negligently performed resulting in numerous and very serious types of injuries including severe pain and discomfort, permanent disfigurement and, in very extreme cases, death. If you have had a substandard cosmetic procedure or have had avoidable post-operative complications you may be entitled to pursue a medical negligence compensation claim.

Your doctor must inform you of the risks involved. Only a fully informed patient can make an informed decision as to whether or not you wish to go ahead with a procedure. If you were not fully advised of the risks prior to your procedure you may be entitled to claim compensation and you should contact our team without delay.

One of the first steps in processing your claim will be to engage an independent medical expert to review your medical records and/or examine you for the purposes of furnishing an expert medical opinion. The expert opinion is used to support your claim and will need to show that the injury, loss and damage suffered by you could have been avoided if a more appropriate course of action had been taken. As with all personal injury claims, there are strict time limits to be adhered to and we would again advise anyone with any questions or doubts to contact us for a free, confidential and consultation over the phone.

CONTACT US REGARDING COSMETIC SURGERY ERRORS

For more information or to arrange a meeting with one of our experienced Medical Negligence Solicitors to discuss cosmetic surgery errors, please contact keith Rollsor Marguerite Baily or call us on 01-5313800

*In contentious business, a solicitor may not calculate fees or other charges as a percentage or proportion of any award or settlement. This statement is made in compliance with RE.8 of SI 518 of 2002

Call Back Request

Personal injury arising out of Lip Implant and Lip Filler Procedures Both lip implant and lip filler procedures are usually carried out without complication, however where complications arise, the resulting consequences and symptoms of same can be most distressing....

The Holloway case decision of the London County Court may be an eye opener for those who are dealing with the negative effects of Laser Eye Surgery in Ireland In late September this year the London County Court ordered Optical Express to pay Stephanie Holloway more...